The IMF's Global Financial Stability Report highlights vulnerabilities in the financial system, warning of potential volatility in credit markets. U.S. stocks are experiencing fluctuations, with the S&P 500 and Dow showing little change. Investor Michael Collins predicts continued market volatility. Companies like Symantec, eBay, and Hewlett-Packard are planning breakups, while Valeant Pharmaceuticals is preparing another takeover bid for Allergan. The CDC reports that Americans are living longer, with life expectancy reaching nearly 78 years, despite cancer and heart disease remaining leading causes of death.

What concern does the IMF raise about the current financial system?

• The rise in unemployment rates

• The decline in global trade

• The increased sensitivity of credit markets

• The lack of investment in technology

How did the S&P 500 perform recently according to the transcript?

• It reached an all-time high

• It remained unchanged

• It fell to its lowest level in two months

• It showed consistent growth

What is a common characteristic of a normal market as mentioned by investor Michael Collins?

• Rapid technological advancements

• Constant decline in stock prices

• High levels of volatility

• Stable and predictable growth

What strategic move is Symantec considering according to the transcript?

• Merging with another company

• Expanding into new markets

• Splitting into two separate companies

• Launching a new product line

What is the average life expectancy for women in the U.S. as reported by the CDC?

• Slightly less than 77 years

• Exactly 78 years

• More than 81 years

• Less than 75 years